What’s the best way to protect my horse during a gang hideout raid?

Protecting your horse during a gang hideout raid in Red Dead Redemption 2 is crucial, as losing your horse can severely impact your gameplay. Horses are not only your primary mode of transportation but also your companion, carrying your weapons, supplies, and loot. To ensure your horse stays safe, follow these detailed steps and strategies.\n\nFirst, before engaging in a raid, make sure your horse is fully bonded. A higher bonding level (Level 4 is ideal) ensures your horse is more obedient, less likely to panic, and can follow commands like staying put or fleeing to safety. Bonding is increased by feeding, grooming, and riding your horse regularly. If your horse is not fully bonded, avoid taking it into dangerous situations until you’ve built trust.\n\nNext, choose the right horse for the job. War horses or breeds with high health and stamina, such as the Ardennes or Turkoman, are better suited for combat-heavy situations. These horses are less likely to flee during gunfire and can withstand more damage. Avoid using skittish breeds like the Arabian in high-risk scenarios, as they are more prone to bolting.\n\nWhen approaching a gang hideout, such as Hanging Dog Ranch or Six Point Cabin, park your horse in a safe location. Find a spot that is out of the line of fire but still accessible for a quick escape. For example, behind a large rock, in dense foliage, or on higher ground overlooking the hideout. Use the ''Stay'' command (hold L2/LT and select ''Stay'') to ensure your horse doesn’t wander into danger.\n\nDuring the raid, keep an eye on your horse’s position using the mini-map. If enemies start targeting your horse, prioritize eliminating them immediately. Use Dead Eye to quickly take out threats. Additionally, equip your horse with a good saddle and stirrups to boost its stamina and health, making it more resilient in case it takes damage.\n\nIf your horse does get injured, use Horse Reviver or Health Tonics to restore its health. Always carry these items in your inventory, especially before engaging in combat. If your horse dies, it’s gone permanently unless you’ve manually saved the game beforehand. To avoid this, save your game before starting the raid so you can reload if something goes wrong.\n\nFor new players, it’s also important to practice controlling your horse during combat. Use the ''Flee'' command (hold L2/LT and select ''Flee'') to send your horse away from the fight if things get too intense. This ensures it stays out of harm’s way while you focus on clearing the hideout.\n\nExperienced players can use advanced tactics, such as positioning their horse near a fast escape route. For example, at Hanging Dog Ranch, park your horse near the main road so you can quickly mount and ride away if reinforcements arrive. This strategy is especially useful when dealing with larger gangs or multiple waves of enemies.\n\nFinally, always be prepared for the unexpected. Gang hideouts are unpredictable, and enemies may flank your position or use explosives. Stay vigilant and prioritize your horse’s safety by keeping it at a distance and monitoring its health. By following these steps, you can ensure your horse survives even the most intense raids.\n\nIn summary, protecting your horse during a gang hideout raid involves careful preparation, strategic positioning, and quick decision-making. Bond with your horse, choose the right breed, park it safely, and always carry essential items like Horse Reviver. With these tips, you can keep your trusted companion safe and continue your adventures in Red Dead Redemption 2.